Lethbridge, AB
T1K 7H7
Phone: (403) 328-1804
Friday, May 20, 2011
The Editor
The Lethbridge Herald
P.O. Box 670
Lethbridge, AB, T1J 3Z7
Herald readers hardly have to go to WikiLeaks to understand the reason for transmission line expansions in Alberta. (“Critic hopes Alta. power line blitz shorts out, Thursday, May 19)
In 2007 Alberta’s energy ministry directed the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) to remove a cap which had been imposed on wind turbine installations in 2006. AESO was also told to set up a framework to allow more wind to be added to Alberta’s power supply and were reminded they are responsible for planning to make sure Alberta’s “reliable grid operation would be maintained”.
Wind energy developers showed great interest in being connected to the transmission grid. Applications were received to connect over 11,500 Mw of wind power to the grid. AESO anticipates 4000 Mw might actually be built over the next ten years and has developed their plan accordingly. That factor alone requires expensive transmission line upgrades to ensure wind power can be delivered to customers in Alberta.
Alberta’s politicians may indeed want to rethink this policy they established under pressure from lobby groups like the Pembina Institute, the Canadian Wind Energy Association and many smaller groups promoting the use of renewable energy. The high costs incurred don’t seem to be sitting too well with the vast majority of electricity users.
Yours truly,
Duane Pendergast